Lisa Sienkiewicz and Gail Parella

Gil's Appliances

Posted
Monday, February 20, 2017 4:11 pm

Gil’s Appliances, a family-owned and operated retailer with locations in Bristol and Middletown, has been proudly serving customers for more than 55 years. Sisters and second generation owners Lisa Sienkiewicz and Gail Parella are proud to continue a tradition of trust, integrity and value that was started by their parents, Gil and Sarah Almeida, in 1961.

Lisa and Gail quite literally grew up in the business, as the Almeida family lived in the apartment upstairs from their original store on Wood Street in Bristol. Lisa and Gail took over the business from their parents in 1995, and have also raised their own families within the walls of Gil’s. A visit to Gil’s today is not unlike the days when the sisters were growing up. Their own children (they have five between them) can be seen helping out, eating a meal or doing homework in a family room located in the back of the store. Friends and neighbors come and go, some to shop and some just to visit. All receive a friendly greeting from Maggie, the Parella family Labradoodle, who has become a cheerful mascot.

Staying ahead of industry and market trends has always been a priority for Lisa and Gail. The last year has been especially progressive, with a focus on retail growth, expansion and reinvestment. Inspired by a rebranded effort that delivered a new logo, the co-owners took a fresh approach at moving the business forward in the digital age. They opened a second retail showroom in Middletown in April, and were warmly welcomed by the Aquidneck Island community. Meanwhile in Bristol, an expansion and renovation broke ground. Nearing completion, the exciting new space will include working kitchens for cooking demonstrations and special events.

Lisa and Gail continue to move the business forward in ways that allow them to thrive in an ever-changing economy and meet the needs of new generations of customers. While some small businesses struggle in an age of big box stores and online shopping, Gil’s continues to thrive thanks in no small part to their community involvement, their commitment to superior customer service and their willingness to adapt to a changing retail world.

At Gil’s, “family-owned” is more than an advertising slogan. It means operating a business with integrity, building relationships and providing value through low pricing and unsurpassed customer service. Lisa and Gail are leaders not only in their field, but also within the community.